Health Library

Incision Care After Vaginal Birth

After your baby’s birth, you may have needed stitches in the skin near your vagina. The stitches might have closed an episiotomy (an incision that enlarges the opening of the vagina). Or you may have needed stitches to repair torn skin. Either way, your stitches should dissolve within weeks. Until then, use this handout as a guide to help ease any discomfort and aid healing.

Keep Clean

You can reduce your risk of infection by keeping the area around the stitches clean. These hints can help:

Gently wipe from front to back after you urinate or have a bowel movement.

After wiping, spray warm water on the stitches. Pat dry. If you are too sore, just spray the area after urination and then pat dry without wiping. If you are too sore, just spray the area after urination and then pat dry without wiping.

Do not use soap or any solution except water unless instructed by your health care provider.

Change sanitary pads at least every 2–4 hours.

Eat to Stay Regular

Having bowel movements is easier if you’re not constipated. Follow these tips:

Eat fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, and bran cereals.

Drink plenty of water.

Don’t strain to have a bowel movement.

Ask your health care provider about using a stool softener. If you are breastfeeding, ask before you take any medication.

Reduce Your Discomfort

Sit in a warm bath (sitz bath).

Place cold or heat packs on your stitches. Keep a thin towel between the pack and your skin.

Sit on a firm seat so the stitches pull less.

Use medicated spray as ordered by your health care provider.

Call your doctor or health care provider if you have:

Repeated clots the size of a quarter or larger passing from the vagina